Elvis Presley – Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain

Introduction:

While not originally recorded by him, Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” holds a significant place in his career and the wider world of country and popular music. The song itself has a long history predating Presley, but it was his soulful performance that etched it into the minds of millions.

Originally written by Fred Rose in 1945, the song was first recorded by Roy Acuff and His Smokey Mountain Boys. It gained further recognition in 1946 when country singer Elton Britt released his version, which reached number five on the Billboard folk chart. “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” became a country standard, covered by numerous artists throughout the late 1940s and 1950s.

Then came Elvis Presley. In 1976, Presley recorded his version of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” at his Graceland estate’s Jungle Room studio. This was a departure from his usual producer, Felton Jarvis, with J.D. Sumner handling production duties. There is some debate around the exact date of the recording, with some sources claiming it was February 8th, 1976, while others suggest it may have happened a day or two earlier. Regardless of the exact date, “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” was released in May of 1976 on the album “From Elvis Presley Boulevard”.

Presley’s version of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” is a ballad, a stark contrast to the more rock and roll-oriented music he was known for earlier in his career. The song features a melancholic piano melody and a simple yet effective arrangement that highlights Presley’s vocals. The lyrics paint a picture of a heartbroken man haunted by the memory of his tearful lover. Presley’s emotive performance perfectly captures the song’s despair, his voice filled with a raw vulnerability that resonates with listeners.

While not a number one hit like some of Presley’s earlier releases, “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” still achieved success. It reached number 43 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a popular choice for jukeboxes and country radio stations. More importantly, the song solidified Presley’s reputation for versatility as a performer and his ability to deliver a powerful ballad.

The legacy of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” extends beyond its chart performance. The song has become a favorite among Presley fans and a touchstone of his later career. It has also been covered by numerous artists across various genres, a testament to its enduring appeal. Whether heard in its original country form or delivered by Presley’s powerful voice, “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” remains a poignant and timeless song.

Video:

Lyrics:

In the twilight glow, I see her
Blue eyes crying in the rain
When we kissed goodbye and parted
I knew we’d never meet again

Love is like a dying ember
Only memories remain
Through the ages, I remember
Blue eyes crying in the rain

Someday when we meet up yonder
We’ll stroll hand in hand again
In a land that knows no parting
Blue eyes crying in the rain
Blue eyes crying in the rain
Blue eyes crying in the rain
Blue eyes crying in the rain
Blue eyes crying in the rain
Blue eyes crying in the rain